Samira's experience

My ten days in the UAE has been an experience of a lifetime. Before my arrival in the UAE, I knew very little of the culture, tradition and religion. All that I knew was what I read in my cross-cultural class at Simmons College and heard from the media. None of my perceptions and interpretations of the Islamic religion and of the Muslim people was correct. Being able to personally interact with the Women of the UAE, I can truly say that I have learned a lot of the history of the Emirates, their culture, and religion and my perceptions and interpretations was significantly wrong before the trip.

The phrase “don’t judge the book by its cover” is a phrase that many say but don’t practice. I can say that I was one of the many that didn’t practice this phrase. My perception of the Islamic religion was a very negative one. I didn’t believe that women worked outside their homes neither less be women leaders of successful companies. My encounter with Raja Al-Gurg , Salwa Shaibani and Huda Al Matroush just to name a few women leaders was an experience that has changed my thoughts about and negative perceptions I had of Muslim women in the UAE. These women are role models to up coming Emirate women who want to make a positive change in their country. They have found their authentic voice in the UAE and they are making positive changes that all women in the UAE can benefit from. Although, Emirati’s are minority in their own country they still have significant dedication to help other citizens to become business leaders specially women. This trip has been a great experience and more is to come!!!!!


Samira